Officer Commendation

I am critical of abuses of power and often those abuses are perpetrated by law enforcement officials.  I write today to compliment a police officer from Albany, Oregon: Officer Jim Estes, a gentleman who represents law enforcement well. His actions and attitude speak to his training and his composure in today's environment of presumed guilt and aggressive interactions.  It also speaks to who he is as a man.

My desire is that all officers interact with the public with as much respect for the individual and the constitution as officer Estes, whether or not they are carrying guns or cameras.  

There is the fact he was being filmed and that he was approaching someone with an AR-15...maybe his composure was in response to both occurring simultaneously as he recognized their activism and that he would be tested and/or made an example of.   I like to think that he is just an intelligent, ethical officer with a protect and serve mindset and intent.  No matter what the situation was, he passed with flying colors and should be commended.

He did his job by verifying that the young men were adhering to state laws regarding chambering and clips while respecting the 1st, 2nd and 4th amendment rights of the individuals he was questioning. 

I think it's important to point out that he also respected them as people as he spoke to them, not just adhering to the letter of the Constitution.  He didn't overreact or get defensive.  He made multiple requests for information, but at no time intimated that they were obligated to comply.

Thank you for fulfilling your role as an honorable, knowledgeable and respectful public servant.

21 Helmets Show

No time to blog lately, but I found Drake Thor's project to be inspiring.  

May it inspire helmet artists everywhere!!!

(photo from: Hell for Leather Magazine) 

What Task Seems Impossible to You?

Witness Isao Machii, a Japanese Katana Kenjutsu master, as he slices a piece off a pellet that is fired at him while his sword is still sheathed.

Does that task seem more possible now?

Listening at the Gate

Stifled...  Within and without

Opening my mouth to roar

Jumbled silence bursts out

So much to say, so much I feel

Inside, I push, I shove, I shout

Outside, I just kneel

Cogitations form communications

Breathed through space and time 

Demanding no vocal vibrations 

I sit stone-still and silently await

Your screaming soul whispering secrets

At this dimension's gate

Danielle Ate The Sandwich - Morning Music

The lovely Danielle sings Someone Like You (Adele Cover).

Ciara Blossom 2010

I would like to introduce you to the lovely Ciara Blossom, a wonderful example of Truth & Beauty. She embodies love and community and is integral to the heartbeat of Austin.

Ciara Blossom 2010 from Spunlight Hoops on Vimeo.

If the Vimeo player doesn't work on your puter, you can check out the YouTube version here.

Kisses & Hugs for the New Year

I wish you fiery kisses and hugs for and throughout the new year!

Shambhala

I know it doesn't look like any fun, but I volunteered anyway. No alcohol is allowed. I think there should be more "no alcohol" concerts! It positively impacts the entire vibe.

I had wanted to share photos from Shambhala, but I only took this one...around 6 am the morning before the festival. This was before most of the crowds arrived. Instead of taking a shot in panoramic view once the crowds arrived, I enjoyed sharing food, drinks, dancing, hugs, massages, philosophy and love with everyone around instead.

I had an amazing time and would happily go again.

P.S. This is not a place to bring children.

A Message of Love

This is an inspiring video with a message of love being shared by Keith Wyatt. "The Call" is the first video in a series of five. There is no hook. It is not an advertisement! It is more of a USA (A Universal Service Announcement).

The Revolution Has Begun.